Ash Scattering Services
For families who have chosen cremation for a loved one, the next decision involves what to do with the remains. Some choose to keep the cremated remains in their home, have them placed in a columbarium niche at a local cemetery, or scatter the ashes in a meaningful place.
Ash Scattering
The State Board of Morticians and Funeral Directors and the Maryland Office of Cemetery Oversight regulate crematories, as of October 1, 2010. The law does not require that cremains be placed in a cemetery. This does not mean that cremated remains can be freely scattered or otherwise disposed of upon public domain, or upon the private property of another person, other than the property of the decedent or the decedent's next of kin. (Public domain is any land owned by Federal, State, County or Municipal governments and includes forests, lakes: streams and most of the desert areas.) The following government departments do have policies regarding the disposition of any matter over land or water. Compliance with the policies and procedures of the agencies noted below is required:
- https://health.maryland.gov/bom/pdf/cremated_remains.pdf
- Federal Department of Environmental Protection (U .S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations , Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 229.1
- State Departments of Natural Resources and of the Environment
In Pennsylvania and West Virginia, there are no state laws controlling where you may keep or scatter ashes. Ashes may be stored in a crypt, niche, grave, or container at home. If you wish to scatter ashes, you have many options. Cremation renders ashes harmless, so there is no public health risk involved in scattering ashes. Use common sense and refrain from scattering ashes in places where they would be obvious to others.
How to Scatter Ashes
Cremated remains bear little resemblance to ashes; they look and behave a lot like small-grained gravel. However, there are some fine-grains mixed in so be sure to check the wind direction before scattering into the air or a body of water.
The technique of trenching is another option. Dig a small trench in the location of your choice, place the remains (or a biodegradable urn containing the ashes) within, and cover with soil.
Raking is another technique used. Pour the remains on the surface of the soil and use a rake to mix the ashes.
You may also wish to check out our selection of scattering urns prior to making plans for your ceremony. Should you need advice on how to design a meaningful ceremony, feel free to call us.